UAE Journalists Association Launches Two Initiatives to Preserve Media Memory at 26th Anniversary Celebration

Dubai, UAE — Fadila Al-Muaini, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the UAE Journalists Association, announced the launch of two pioneering initiatives, the “Headline and Cover Museum” and the “Feathers and Shadow Hall,” during the Association’s celebration of its 26th anniversary at its headquarters in Dubai. The event was held under the slogan “The Word… Trust and Responsibility,” and was attended by a distinguished gathering of journalists, media professionals, and intellectuals.

The celebration marked an important milestone in the Association’s journey, highlighting more than two decades of achievements in strengthening media professionalism and preserving the UAE’s national media memory. On the occasion, the Board of Directors also approved a decision to exempt a number of veteran and distinguished members from membership renewal fees for an extended period, in recognition of their longstanding contributions to the profession and the Association.

Preserving Journalistic Memory
Al-Muaini explained that the “Headline and Cover Museum” was launched in response to an urgent need to document Emirati journalistic history. She emphasized that newspaper headlines and front pages are not merely texts and images, but authentic reflections of historical moments and key social and national transformations. The museum presents journalism as a cohesive narrative, enabling younger generations to understand how media discourse is formed and encouraging a culture of critical reading and awareness.

The “Feathers and Shadow Hall,” meanwhile, celebrates journalistic illustration and caricature as a vital component of the media landscape. The initiative highlights how visual commentary can convey complex issues through expressive lines and intelligent symbolism, complementing the written word and enhancing its impact.
Culture as a Sustainable Investment
The Chairperson affirmed that these initiatives align with the Association’s broader mission, which extends beyond professional support to include the preservation of media heritage and the promotion of cultural creativity. This approach reflects the UAE’s vision of culture as a sustainable investment and a pillar of national development.
She expressed confidence that journalists, researchers, and media scholars will actively engage with these projects, which aim to preserve collective memory, stimulate dialogue between generations, and reinforce professional and ethical awareness within the media community. She also noted that exempting senior members from fees is part of a wider package of services designed to strengthen their continued involvement in the Association’s activities.

Leadership Support and Professional Responsibility

In her address, Al-Muaini highlighted the unlimited support extended by the UAE’s wise leadership to the media sector and its professionals, noting that this support has played a decisive role in advancing the national media landscape, raising professional standards, and fostering an environment conducive to creativity. She described the UAE as a regional and international model in media development.
She stressed that the anniversary slogan, “The Word… Trust and Responsibility,” embodies a core principle that guides the Association’s work — ensuring the accurate transmission of truth, enhancing public awareness, and upholding the highest professional and ethical standards. She reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to expanding partnerships, training programs, and professional development initiatives while continuing to document national achievements.

Documentary Exhibition and Veteran Testimonies

The celebration featured a documentary exhibition tracing the evolution of Emirati media since the establishment of the first press institutions. Visitors explored photographs, documents, and manuscripts that showcased the efforts of media professionals in covering national events and accompanying the country’s economic and social transformation.
The event also included testimonial segments in which veteran journalists shared their professional experiences and challenges, offering valuable insights into the dedication required to preserve the integrity of the media message and serve society faithfully.